Classic Etch A Sketch Magic Screen

Do you remember Etch-a-Sketch? Yes? Me too! Lots of happy childhood memories, sat cross legged on the floor with a ready and waiting blank canvas whenever you wanted.

The sense of accomplishment felt in mastering the control knobs, the pride in sharing designs and drawings with family members and friends.

The Etch A Sketch definitely was a cherished childhood toy but I don't know about you but it does seem a little strange to have them now described as a "classic toy."

Recently, some of those childhood memories came flooding back when one of our young nephews received his very own Etch A Sketch Magic Screen for his birthday. It was a real surprise to see that it is still being manufactured!

The look and feel is the same as when I was child. The red plastic frame, two white control knobs on the front and the grey safety glass screen. The fact that it has remained unchanged for so long is testament to the perfection of its design. Why change a good thing? It is as rugged, functional and fun as it was when I was a youngster.

Of course, seeing it now through the eyes of a "grownup" I was able to appreciate even further this marvelous toy. First, the fact that it is ready to enjoy out of the box seems so refreshing nowadays when nearly every other toy requires batteries, cables or computer interfaces to work. This makes the Etch A Sketch Magic Screen ready whenever and wherever a child wants to play with it.

A Creative Toy

Also, the power of the device to stimulate the imagination truly impressed me. Our nephew can spend ages on his Etch A Sketch actively stimulating his creativity. Unlike sitting in front of a monitor mindlessly responding to computer generated scenes of a video game, the Etch A Sketch actually prompts him to think, plan and create.

As a child I never thought of those benefits, but they are clearly there. Which means that as someone who likes to buy toys that are creative a number of those who we are buying toys for this Christmas will be getting an Etch-a-Sketch this year! I suspect many of our relatives will think them much better than the drumsets we had thought of, which I am sure would have delighted the parents.

Its portability factor and ruggedness is also clearly evident. With dimensions roughly similar to those of a computer tablet (9.1 inches x 8.9 inches) it can go anywhere. The control knobs used for drawing are firm and will certainly stand up to the rough handling that I remember we used to give them. The screen is coated with a plastic film keeping it intact even after the expected drops and bumps that my nephew has already placed on it.

If like me you love introducing your kids or nieces and nephews to classic toys then an Etch A Sketch Magic Screen is definitely a must buy.

I must admit that I "borrowed" our nephew's unit and relived some of those childhood memories. So whether it is for the purpose of helping a child discover their imagination and creativity, or if it is as a nostalgic gift for an adult, the Etch A Sketch is one of those things that all will enjoy once they receive one. Like they say, "everything old is new again."

Maybe you want a slightly smaller version of the etch-a-sketch? There are portable and travel versions available and you can see a selection of them below.

Which is your favorite?

Do you remember how to use an etch a sketch? If not or you need to show someone how to use it then do take a look at this brief introductory video!

Of course I needed to know that the Etch a Sketch was available in the UK as well so that I could start ordering them for the people I am buying gifts for this year. So if like me you are based in the UK you can get your's below:

Buy Classic Etch a Sketch in the UK